Since the scheme was introduced in October 2013, 688 employers have been named and shamed, with total arrears of more than £3.5 million.

Business Minister Margot James said: “This Government is determined to build an economy that works for everyone, not just the privileged few.

“That means making sure everyone gets paid the wages they are owed – including our new, higher, National Living Wage. It is not acceptable that some employers fail to pay at least the minimum wage their workers are entitled to,” said the Minister.

In a statement, Sue MacLaughlin Director, Bluebird Care Coleraine said: “The team at Bluebird Care Coleraine always go above and beyond to deliver outstanding care to our customers and are the most important aspect of our business.

“Ensuring that my team are paid higher than national minimum wage, now called national living wage, has always been my top priority.

“The HMRC inspection happened in September 2014 and I have ensured that we have paid any historic shortfalls highlighted as a result of that inspection. I am very sorry for any shortfall in pay that any member of my team had and I would never knowingly underpay my staff. I remain grateful for my team’s exceptional passion, commitment and dedication to their critical role in delivering the very best homecare and support services to our community.”